Highway Wind Power Generation by VAWT (Vertical axis wind turbine)

The objective of the project is to design a wind turbine to recapture wind energy from vehicles on the highway. Wind energy is considered the fastest growing clean energy source. However, it is limited by variable natural wind. Highways can provide a considerable amount of wind to drive a turbine due to high vehicle traffic. This kinetic energy is unused. Research on wind patterns was used to determine the average velocity of the wind created by oncoming vehicles. The wind turbines are designed to be placed on the medians therefore dow from both sides of the highway will be considered in the design. Using all of the collected data, existing streetlights on the medians can be fitted with these wind turbines.

The design of the turbines consists of blades, collars, bearings, a shaft, gears and a generator. Additionally, since the wind source will fluctuate, a storage system for the power generated was designed to distribute and maintain a constant source of power. Ideally, the turbine can be used globally as an unlimited power source for streetlights and other public amenities.